Grateful in the Stillness of the Night

Last night, as I was getting into bed, I was struck by a simple but powerful thought: I am truly blessed.

Snuggled into my soft bed, surrounded by pillows and reading by the light of my bedside lamp, I found myself reflecting on how different life is now compared to those who lived on this land before me. My husband and I live on about nine acres that are a small portion of the land that has been in his family for generations, and I often think about the history held here.

Not long ago, my brother-in-law pointed out where the old outhouse used to be when he was a child. It’s a long walk from our house—back into the field—so far that he joked you’d better start heading that way well before you thought you needed to go!

Even before his time, people lived here in much more primitive conditions. We have the land deeds hanging on our wall that date back to 1852, and I can’t help but wonder about the early families, even before that time: what their lives were like, what hardships they faced. I can imagine there were fears, famines, disease, and death of young and old. Many of those folks couldn’t have slept well because they always had to be on guard to protect their families. During war times, even the Civil War, there would have been dangers of bands of unruly soldiers coming through and taking what they needed or wanted.

My mind only pondered these thoughts for a few minutes, but as I reached for my book on the nightstand, a sense of gratitude came over me. Despite the challenges I face in my own life, I realized just how much I have: a safe, warm home, food in my belly, good health, and the peace of mind to rest without fear. And yes, a bathroom just a few steps away!

Sometimes we need to stop and take stock of the blessings that surround us. In the midst of life’s busyness and burdens, it’s easy to overlook them. But when we take the time to notice, gratitude becomes a kind of medicine—it quiets the mind, soothes the soul, and for me, turns into praise to God. And there’s no better remedy than that. What do you have to be thankful for today?

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6–7 (NIV)

May 4, 2025 Morning Brew

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